Jul 9, 2008

Entertainment - BBC to launch its first world news hub

BBC to launch its first world news hub

MUMBAI: BBC has integrated its international expertise into one central world news hub. BBC World News television, BBC’s world online and newsgathering teams and representatives from BBC World Service radio and online will combine forces to support the BBC’s international news services.

BBC World News television is also launching a new hour-long World News Today with Mishal Hussain which targets the evening peak audience across Asia Pacific.The show will bring viewers up-to-date with the latest global, regional news, analysis and interviews.BBC World News will begin broadcasting from its new studio at BBC Television Centre in London. The new larger studio design has been created to fit with the recent channel rebrand, and will showcase a more creative on-screen look and incorporate bolder visuals. The studio has a large graphics screen and presenters will use a new ‘soft set’ area for lighter live interviews. The set aims to create a more vibrant and flexible environment for both breaking news reports and longer-form news programming, allowing presenters to take a more informal approach standing in front of the big screen.Finally, the 10 pm news programme will also change from its regular half-hour format to an hour-long show to include more live events and breaking news.BBC World News News head Richard Porter says, “We’ve already made some significant changes this year with our new name of BBC World News and the channel rebrand. Now our international news talent is in one location, we can further strengthen our output across TV, online and radio platforms. These changes, along with the new studio and news programming, demonstrate our commitment to providing viewers with the best international news and information available.”